Removing Window Film

HINTS FROM HELOISE Syndicated Columnist

Dear Heloise: I have a problem with the solar film bubbling on our porch windows. Is there an easy way to remove the old film, or must this be done professionally? - A. Nasternak, Vero Beach

Dear A. Nasternak: Try using a hand-held hair dryer to help remove the film. Just point the heat at a corner until you can lift the film, then as you pull the film away, direct the hot air in between the film and the glass. Lift the film away slowly, making sure both the film and glue layer are coming up. If there is any adhesive left, use ammonia and water to get it off.

Dear Heloise: We have a compost heap in our backyard, and at the end of each day we fill it with all of the fruit, vegetable peels and leftovers from natural food eaten throughout the day. We also include grass clippings and leaves.

After a week or two, we mix it up and it begins to recycle itself. A few months later, the compost heap has made rich soil that puts the nutrients and vitamins back into the ground.

This is a great way to recycle and keep our earth clean at the same time. - Elizabeth Lessner, Tom C. Clark High School, San Antonio, Texas

Dear Heloise: I just discovered the best spot remover for dried bloodstains. Just put a dab of hydrogen peroxide on a clean white cotton cloth and rub the spot lightly. Rinse with a little water and presto, no tell-tale bleached look or spot. Try it; you'll be amazed. - E.M. Alexander, Lyons, Kan. Dear E.M. Aleander: Don't forget to test for colorfastness before applying hydrogen peroxide to any colored fabric. Because it works slowly, it can be an effective natural-type "bleach" on bloodstains, even on pastel colors.

According to the International Fabricare Institute, the best method to use is to place a clean white towel under the stain, wet the area with water and add a drop of any liquid laundry detergent.

Then, using a cotton swab or an eye dropper, apply a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to the stain. It should disappear. Then rinse with water.